This unique pumpkin seed parsley pesto recipe is made without any cheese, nuts, or basil! By definition, this is a slight detour from a true “pesto.” But it has the same vibrant hue, a similar flavor profile, and just as much versatility. Think of it as pesto meets chimmichurri, and enjoy it tossed with cooked pasta or rice, steamed or roasted vegetables, a baked potato, or your favorite protein.
Special Diet Notes: Pumpkin Seed Parsley Pesto
By ingredients, this recipe is dairy-free / non-dairy, egg-free, gluten-free, nut-free, peanut-free, soy-free, vegan, plant-based, and vegetarian.
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 8 garlic cloves, peeled
- 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoons freshly ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 tablespoons vegetable broth or stock
- Place the pumpkin seeds in a skillet. Dry roast them over low heat, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes or until they are toasted and finish popping. Remove from heat and cool.
- Transfer the seeds to a blender. Add the parsley, garlic, lemon juice, pepper, and salt.
- With the blender motor running, slowly add the oil and broth, blending until the sauce is smooth.
- Toss the pesto with hot pasta and serve immediately or transfer it to an airtight ontainer and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
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3 Comments
I love this recipe! So easy, delicious and inexpensive too! I used water instead of broth, but otherwise kept to the exact recipe. Thanks so much!
That’s great! So glad it worked well for you Karly.
I made this the other day and it’s spectacular. I added the zest of one lemon, and used plain water instead of vegetable broth. It was great the first day, and now that it’s been in the fridge a couple days it has taken on a new depth of flavor. I’ve been pairing it with steamed beets, and earlier today I slathered some on a bagel. I definitely recommend this recipe!